Listen to the Birds

I’m a hiker and have forged a lot of trails in my lifetime. I enjoy pushing myself up and up the winding paths to the top of some hike. It’s a challenge to me as my chest wants more air. I’m focusing so hard on my breath and the hike ahead, I sometimes don’t see what’s around me. This day it was different.

We decided to take our walk along the river.

This week, Jim suggested we take a hike. Not a steep clamor up a trail, but a relaxing one along the river. I agreed that warm, blue skied morning. Our usual walk along the river this time was among the wild flowers instead of the domesticated floral wonder we’ve been watching near our home. So up the road about seven miles we drove, to Steigerwald Lake Preserve. Come join us!

At the beginning….

It’s a trail most anyone could take to enjoy the birdsong. The trail is flat and someone in a wheelchair could enjoy the sights.

They wanted us to stay on the trail.

There were bird identifications. Wish I’d brought my bird book.

How many creatures are in those grasses?

Foxglove.

Wild daisies

Hideaway for some creature.

Beside quiet waters…..

Resting place in the sun.

Along the Columbia River, not far from home.

Sunshine and shadow.

It was a good walk. About three miles of sunshine and shadow. Of birdsong everywhere. Of grasses and blue sky. Flat paths meandering among the grass and woods.

Take time to listen……you’ll be glad you did!

I’ll leave you with a treat. You must click play to hear the birds. Perhaps you don’t have time today to take a walk along the river. Take a listen. See that large bird (I think an Osprey, but not sure) in the middle of the brown and green marshes? He’s catching tadpoles.